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Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy

Date: Fri, Nov 13, 2026

Time: 7 PM - 9 PM

Venue: Rubenstein Arts Center, von der Heyden Studio Theater, Durham

Price: Free

Category: Community

Duke University's Laboratory for Social Choreography invites you to participate in its latest venture, Theater. Spend an evening in meaningful conversation with strangers. Listen, speak, disagree, remain silent, and encounter others without judgment or fear. Discover what the collective body is thinking and dreaming about. Experience what deep democracy can feel like when you find yourself embedded in an ecology of concerns with no predetermined roles or outcomes. Bring friends. People of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds are welcome. ‘A glimpse of democratic thought stripped of theater’ To RSVP - please follow this linkhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd1PijBjgGltXtfwDRuJcV3ZhJ26Vs7ue-hPPvCv36jeTNeaQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=108919475168373824097 This event is supported by Belonging? a contribution by the Arts and Humanities departments of Trinity College to We the People: A Duke and Durham Initiative. Belonging? is funded by Trinity College and Duke Arts. Theater was developed by the Laboratory for Social Choreography, under the direction of Prof. Michael Kliën, at the Kenan Institute for Ethics.

Community · Durham

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy

RSVP online early because seating at the von der Heyden Studio is limited.

When
Nov 13
Fri, Nov 13, 2026
7 PM - 9 PM
Ages
Check ages with the venue
Price
Free
durhamfreefamily friendly

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy is an interactive community gathering at Duke University focused on open conversation and mutual understanding. Hosted by the Laboratory for Social Choreography, the evening invites participants to share perspectives, listen to neighbors, and explore collective ideas in a supportive environment. What to Know: The event takes place at the Rubenstein Arts Center in Durham and is open to all ages, though it is best suited for teenagers and adults who can participate in group discussions. Admission is free, but you must RSVP online beforehand to secure a spot. Park in the Campus Drive lot or the nearby parking garages on Duke's West Campus. This is a thoughtful weekend option if you want to step away from screens and connect with your local community on a deeper level. It offers a rare space for honest, respectful dialogue right in the heart of Durham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a cost to attend this event?
No, the event is completely free to the public, but you do need to register online in advance to secure your spot.
What age group is this event best for?
While all ages are welcome, the format involves sustained conversation and listening, making it most appropriate for teenagers and adults.
Where should I park at the Rubenstein Arts Center?
You can find paid visitor parking in the Campus Drive lot directly across the street from the arts center.

Last updated

FREE

Nov 13

Plan Your Visit

Schedule

Theater, a Site for Deep Democracy runs Fri, Nov 13, 2026, 7 PM - 9 PM. It repeats daily.

Getting There

Rubenstein Arts Center, von der Heyden Studio Theater is at 2020 Campus Drive, Durham, NC. Open in Google Maps.

More events at Rubenstein Arts Center, von der Heyden Studio Theater

What to Bring

Nothing but the kids — this one's free, with no tickets to buy.

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